Spencer Johnson’s maiden worldwide five-wicket haul helped give Australia an unassailable 2-0 lead within the T20 sequence in opposition to Pakistan with a 13-run victory in Sydney.
The 28-year-old tempo bowler took 5-26 as Australia dismissed Pakistan for 134 to win the second T20 of the best-of-three sequence.
With Pakistan chasing 148 to win, Johnson ripped by the highest order to depart the guests on 44-4, taking three wickets.
Pakistan regained a foothold, helped by Usman Khan’s half-century.
However Johnson eliminated Khan for 52, then Abbas Afridi for his fifth wicket of the match.
Irfan Khan’s unbeaten 37 took Pakistan inside touching distance, however Haris Rauf was run out because the hosts had been dismissed for 134.
“It is a possibility I do not take calmly – I am privileged to be carrying the inexperienced and gold,” stated Johnson.
“You by no means know when your final recreation goes to be for Australia, so each recreation is a bonus. Hopefully I can play a pair extra.”
The third and closing T20 takes place in Hobart on 18 November.
